Fresh Coat Studio Lori Hunter

08/06/2026

Several weeks went into refinishing this MCM dresser- learned about using a dye stain before applying a gel stain to balance the tone in the drawer fronts. This is a Basset and well made, but had that old “blonde” sprayed on finish and thus it did not have the same type of solid wood throughout. Applying a light brown General Finishes Dye Stain first, evened out the tones so the application of the Nutmeg Gel Stain would balance evenly across the drawer fronts and frame.

08/06/2026

This was such a fun project!

07/24/2026

One of the most rewarding parts of restoring furniture is realizing that every project builds on the last.

The goal isn’t to rush.

The goal is to work with greater confidence, intention, and respect for the craftsmanship that came before us.

✨ The Ambassador

07/24/2026

07/21/2026

How many calories does 2–3 hours of sanding burn? 😅

Probably enough to earn dessert.

This cedar chest lid has seen better days. Rebuilding the damaged profile wasn’t a one-step process—it took multiple thin layers of filler, patience, contour sanding blocks, and a lot of sanding.

The goal isn’t just to make it look smooth. It’s to carefully recreate the original molding so the repair disappears once it’s primed and painted.

It’s slow work, but watching the original profile come back to life makes every minute worthwhile.

Next up: seal coat, primer, and paint.

— Lori
Fresh Coat Studio

journal

07/15/2026

SOLD! Thank you! 🤎

Iron Wood has found the perfect new home in a Smoky Mountain cabin! Thank you to everyone who followed along, shared, commented, and supported this project. Every piece has a story, and I’m so grateful to see this one begin its next chapter.

Stay tuned—more unique furniture transformations are on the way!

06/07/2026

Meet Ironwood.

A vintage Sears & Roebuck dresser reimagined with western character, warm wood tones, brass details, and artwork inspired by life around the barn.

Available soon from Fresh Coat Studio.

www.freshcoatstudiotn.com

06/05/2026

New project- almost finished - just needs to be sealed🙂

Finished with Fusion Wood Wick paint wash (3 tbs Wood Wick and 9 tbs water)

Have others liked using Wood Wick as a paint wash? I like the way it brings out the grain on this dresser.